Friday, 30 December 2011
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
12 Days of Mithra-mas: Day 4
Four collie Birds
Three French Hens
Two turtledoves and a
partrdige in a pear tree----
18 Century Carol
This song being in French originally then Old English the words have been of course mangled. According to researchers the word as some Americans sing it "calling" actually is 'collie'. The word 'collie' actually refers to 'coal' or 'Blackbirds'.
During the Middle Ages, Blackbirds, if you were wondering why someone would give their love, was a valuable meat. as in the child's nursing rhyme:
' sing a song of sixpence, ....
four and twenty blackbirds
baked in a pie"
Now as a Celtic pagan followers I love the thought of Blackbirds, especially as a follower of Morrigan. We know the blackbirds associated with Morrigan are Ravens or Crows, not exactly birds we would want to eat,
For those with the totem can find this information worth reading. Raven which are part of the blackbird family are particularly associated with magic, they can be found in the Norse, Celtic, Greek even the Egyptian myths and pantheons.
Seeing the Ravens is to know that the Gods are close, they are messengers to the Spirit World and guides that make it easier for you to find your way there. In Norse mythology they are Odin's Birds "Thought" & "Memory".
I see Ravens and crows often in my daily journey especially in my walks throughout the new town, they remind me of the ever presence of the Goddess, they also remind me that death is always with us (since New Haven is considered one of the deadliest towns in the North East), which makes me wonder, did the birds bring more death or did the birds show up because of the death?
The Raven reminds us to learn from the past and to not let it hold us back, i also heed the Raven or blackbirds as a warning of things to come.
You can try to find some blackbird feathers in the wild, if you do, wear gloves until you clean them, wash it well with some warm water and soap. I also cut a tiny slit in the end of the tail(the piece that would connect to the bird's body) and soak it in some bleach for a few days. Once it is clean, place it on your altar and thank the Gods for this Air representative, bless it and use it whenever you need to send your wishes to the Gods, or during ceremonial magic.
Invite the playful spirit of the blackbird especially from the nursery rythme into your life and renact with children or even for yourself as simple or elaborate a play as you can. i notice children seem to love having their noses plucked off, my goddaughter falls over laughing all the time.
If you see the blackbirds before the New Year, use that as a prompt to reflect over the past 12 months and decide what to keep and what to let go into the past.
Be Blessed and Happy Fourth Day
Tuesday, 27 December 2011
12 Days of Mithra-mas: Day 3
On the 3rd day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
Three French hens…
18th Century Carol
December 28Well I couldn’t find french hens to make these dishes, but Cornish hens are so divine that I figured I would make these instead.
I decided to dedicate today's post about eating some of the birds described in the song, as they would have done on the grand feast during the 12 days. Some scholars believe the song describes the feasts and it's menus as well as the activities that take place later on, but for now let's get down with the grub!!!
Some of my favorite Cornish Hen recipes can be found here
If you love Whole Foods (which I do) you will love to know they have a show called the Secret Ingredient with an AMAZING recipe (whihc I have tried and love) for Cornish Game Hens
My favorite is a remake of a French dish (considering that the carol is considered a derivative of a French song I believe this is appropriate)
Ingredients:
2 tbsp Butter at room temp
French tarragon
Sage
Red Onion
black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups broth
Your Hens either do 1/2s per person or 1 each.
Directions:
- chop up onion and put it inside the hens, season with black pepper and salt.
- Lightly lift the skin of your hens
- add seasoning to butter, then place the seasoned butter beneath the skin of your hens
- you make this stuffing and place inside your hens as well
- Bake the hens at recommended temperature (400 or 375) until well done
Serve with wild rice.
Monday, 26 December 2011
12 Days of Mithramas: Day 2
my true love gave to me,
two turtledoves &
two turtledoves &
a partridge in a pear tree"
--18th century Christmas Carol
December 27
The first time I learned about doves and their connection to love; occurred when I was a part of a cousin's wedding when I was little. After they said their vows. two doves were released; being a curious child when I asked why, I was told they were for good luck, as they are mentioned within the Song of Songs are considered by most Christians to be a symbol of love & devotion (one of my favorite chapters of the Bible, as it's a poem between lovers; & it's one of the few mentions of dark skinned women.)
According to the books on animal interpretations, the following means are associated with Dove/Pigeon- Understanding peace and love. Gentleness. Warning. Laid back. Speed and agility in air. Community. Strong partner bonds. Travel. It is also associated with feminine energies, prophecy & maternity. The Cycle of Power (times best to use this totem) is during dawn & dusk.
This is animal is also associated with Aphrodite, who was born on a shell that a dove brooded (nested) on. In some traditions it was believed that when a person died their sould became a dove, which is where the other association of Doves comes into play. To early pagans, it was associated with the sacred feminine, the maternal insticts, & yoni (the sexual organs). It was not only associated with Aphrodite, but with Astarte & Isis too. In some North American traditions it was used as a sacred feather.
In Celtic tradition, according to the Ogham it connects to the Aspen tree. Doves often come after a time of suffering because she recognizes our need for sanctuary. The Celts recognized the tenderness of the dove, and so can we. Look to the dove for healing, grace, kindness and peace. She carries all of these attributes and promises safekeeping form the storms of life.
How you can incorporate the Dove into your day
The first time I learned about doves and their connection to love; occurred when I was a part of a cousin's wedding when I was little. After they said their vows. two doves were released; being a curious child when I asked why, I was told they were for good luck, as they are mentioned within the Song of Songs are considered by most Christians to be a symbol of love & devotion (one of my favorite chapters of the Bible, as it's a poem between lovers; & it's one of the few mentions of dark skinned women.)
According to the books on animal interpretations, the following means are associated with Dove/Pigeon- Understanding peace and love. Gentleness. Warning. Laid back. Speed and agility in air. Community. Strong partner bonds. Travel. It is also associated with feminine energies, prophecy & maternity. The Cycle of Power (times best to use this totem) is during dawn & dusk.
This is animal is also associated with Aphrodite, who was born on a shell that a dove brooded (nested) on. In some traditions it was believed that when a person died their sould became a dove, which is where the other association of Doves comes into play. To early pagans, it was associated with the sacred feminine, the maternal insticts, & yoni (the sexual organs). It was not only associated with Aphrodite, but with Astarte & Isis too. In some North American traditions it was used as a sacred feather.
In Celtic tradition, according to the Ogham it connects to the Aspen tree. Doves often come after a time of suffering because she recognizes our need for sanctuary. The Celts recognized the tenderness of the dove, and so can we. Look to the dove for healing, grace, kindness and peace. She carries all of these attributes and promises safekeeping form the storms of life.
How you can incorporate the Dove into your day
- you can wake up early enough for dawn, or sneak out during dusk and listen for the cooing of the dove
- If you have some clay and some time, make a dove using the clay and let it dry, add it your altar on the right for the Goddess.
- You could always make pictures and place them on your altar as well,
- if you can crochet you can make a crocheted Dove to hang on your tree
- You make Dove Bars
Sunday, 25 December 2011
12 Days of Mithra-Mas: Day 1
"On the first day of Christmas
my true love gave to me,
a partridge in a pear tree"
--18th century Christmas Carol
December 26
According to the original version of the song the lyrics are in French, and instead of the word "pear" it's Perdrix actually said "perdee" which is french for partridge, the belief is that the writer simply copied the song down wrong which changed the line to it's current phrasing.
There are many animals of the Solstice birds seem to be the biggest ones represented. Let's start with the one found in the first lyric:
" On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, A Partridge in a Pear Tree..."
There are many meanings of Partridge within each cultural and religious context. for some it can symbolise: Fertility, Community, Mobility, femininity, invisibility, holding ones ground in a tight spot. Knowing when to remain silent.
While the Pear tree symbolises: Immortality, female symbol.
Perdix, "Lord of the Pear Trees", was one of Athens most sacred kings, when he was cast into the sea to die, his goddess, Athena, carried him to Olympus, in the form of a Partridge.
- When the legend of "The Partridge in a Pear Tree", was made into a Christmas Carol, the symbol of Christ was substituted for Lord Perdix.
In Greek and Roman mythology, pears are sacred to three goddesses: Hera (Juno to the Romans), Aphrodite (Venus to the Romans), and Pomona, a Roman goddess of gardens and trees.
In Europe, it was customary to plant a fruit tree at a wedding. The longevity and fruitfulness of the trees were thought to give strength to the marriage and children. As each child arrived, an apple tree was planted for every boy, and a pear tree for each girl.
In Russia, pears were used as protective charms for cows.
The ancient Chinese, believed that the pear was a symbol of immortality. (Pear trees live for a long time.) In Chinese the word "li", means both "pear" and "separation". For this reason, tradition says that to avoid a separation, friends and lovers should not divide a pear.
How you can incorporate the theme:
Resources" On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, A Partridge in a Pear Tree..."
There are many meanings of Partridge within each cultural and religious context. for some it can symbolise: Fertility, Community, Mobility, femininity, invisibility, holding ones ground in a tight spot. Knowing when to remain silent.
While the Pear tree symbolises: Immortality, female symbol.
Perdix, "Lord of the Pear Trees", was one of Athens most sacred kings, when he was cast into the sea to die, his goddess, Athena, carried him to Olympus, in the form of a Partridge.
- When the legend of "The Partridge in a Pear Tree", was made into a Christmas Carol, the symbol of Christ was substituted for Lord Perdix.
In Greek and Roman mythology, pears are sacred to three goddesses: Hera (Juno to the Romans), Aphrodite (Venus to the Romans), and Pomona, a Roman goddess of gardens and trees.
In Europe, it was customary to plant a fruit tree at a wedding. The longevity and fruitfulness of the trees were thought to give strength to the marriage and children. As each child arrived, an apple tree was planted for every boy, and a pear tree for each girl.
In Russia, pears were used as protective charms for cows.
The ancient Chinese, believed that the pear was a symbol of immortality. (Pear trees live for a long time.) In Chinese the word "li", means both "pear" and "separation". For this reason, tradition says that to avoid a separation, friends and lovers should not divide a pear.
How you can incorporate the theme:
- Wood Burn the pattern much like the picture from the Pennsylvania Dutch Hex Symbols.
- You can print the image and simply colour it and frame it, hang it as a symbol for Athena
- You can create a small pear tree, using twigs with few made leaves, then create a pear, and even a partridge you can place it on the dining table as a centrepiece.
- Crochet Pattern: from Coats and Clark
Perdix and Pear Meaning
Partridge meaning
Happy First Day of Mithramas!!!
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Merry Yule
Merriest Yule and Goddess Blessings to you and your family, A Solstice Poem to help you on this night:
The Yule Log by Robert Herrick
Come, bring with a noise,
My merry, merry boys,
My merry, merry boys,
The Christmas log to the firing;
While my good dame, she
Bids ye all be free,
While my good dame, she
Bids ye all be free,
And drink to your heart's desiring.
With the last year's brand
Light the new block, and
With the last year's brand
Light the new block, and
For good success in his spending,
On your Psaltries play,
That sweet luck may
On your Psaltries play,
That sweet luck may
Tuesday, 20 December 2011
Review of TinyPrints:
For all of my Crafty Scrapbookers, paper crafters, those who like to make their own cards, and love using eco-friendly and supporting small businesses, here is another resource for you.
"What was started by three friends with big dreams and a passion for beautiful paper has grown from a tiny, self-funded company specialising in unique baby stationery into a booming online retailer of stylish designs for every occasion that is recognised around the globe for our commitment to customer service and our insistence that personal attention be paid to every order."~~~~~Tinyprints
This website has eco-friendly choices, you can make customised calendars, cards, and even send out your Christmas cards (yeah i know it's a little too late for that this year but you can use it for next year). I personally am a big fan of Shutterfly (I store my pictures here) and have occasionally used their printing services, so I can tell you from experience that Tinyprint's prices are pretty competitive and have sometimes been cheaper than Shutterfly. (I think I have found a pretty good new resources..yeah buddy).
They also have three other buinesses attached with them including Wedding, Business, and Greeting. I LOVED the Wedding site (just makes you want to get married just so you can send out some of those save the date cards~~~ohhhh, i can use them for my sister's wedding OH Right!!!)
I was asked by the TinyPrints company to review their products and give an honest review, I have not received any monetary payment for the review. and even secured a cool discount for y'all.
Check out the website and use the discount code 10TPSPECIAL and receive 10% off a purchase. Excludes gifts & calendars, photo books, stamps, and the William Arthur and Eric Condren products. The discount code is good for all purchases excluding those listed, so use it and have some serious fun!
You can also become a part of their community on each of their pages and keep up with new and upcoming products on their blog.
Happy Crafting my loves
Monday, 19 December 2011
21 Days of Yoga Challenge
Day 1 ” Crap crap I signed up for that challenge… why do I keep doing this crap to myself….. oh look the day is done ..oh well there’s always tomorrow
Day 2 Jesus H Christ why do I do this crap to myself, fine fine I will do the yoga but Im going to do the beginner class it won’t be so hard…oh Gods Oh Gods..this isn’t beginner this isn’t beginner. OMG …
Day 3 Ok Rodney Yee I can do whatever you throw at me I’ve been doing this for year….. Sweet Goddess do these people think I'm made of rubber bands…..legs should not go like this… oh my Gods..
Man who knew your hips did so much for your body?? I actually enjoyed this mornings class, it hurt so sweetly and I ended up feeling so limber and loose afterwards.
I’m so out of shape and really need to get back to regular practice so. it’s yoga for 28 days then pilates for 21 , then boot camp!!
See you in four days when I do the weekly recap!!
Be Blessed
Monday, 12 December 2011
Monday Movie Review:
I spent most of the weekend working on getting as much of my Movie list completed as possible, especially for the Christmas Blog Party (link on the side of the blog). I am a huge Sidney Poitier fan, especially in To Sir with Love, so I made it my goal to see all his movies. This is the first movie I have seen that has Katherine Hepburn in it. I see why she is considered such a good actress. This movie is and was a ground breaking movie. I believe they handled the subject matter very well.
It really looked at how those who think they are liberal react when they are faced with the results of their ideals coming home. It's one thing to say you 'believe in equal rights' it's another to have it come home to dinner, and marry your child. I loved that the Minister is the one who pointed this very thing out to the father.
On paper this young man is a perfect catch a world renowned Dr, a ivy league graduate, he's the kind of man any father would want for their daughter; yet it was the colour of his skin that made her father hesitant to accept him. Katherine Hepburn at first was shocked, yet when she noticed how happy her daughter was she was all for supporting them. I loved how when put to the test she reacted to her closest friend with an unpredictable way.
I agree with her father that their guerrilla tactics of spring the news of who she was dating and the fact of their engagement was unfair; yet it gave them the advantage of seeing the true reactions beneath the 'public politically correct face'.
Now a few years later the movie was updated and changed a bit, and starred Bernie Mac (may he RIP) and Ashton Kutcher. In this updated version, the reversed roles of the affluent African American family who's daughter brought home the Caucasian fiancee'. It was more of a comedic turn than the original but was just as good (in my opinion) of showing the story from the other side.
These movies showed that sometimes no matter how 'advanced' we think we are when our ideals are put to the challenge sometimes we are faced with our hidden bigotry. It amazed me that even then, it was more of a hassle for the African American housekeeper to accept the concept of a mixed race couple than it did for the mother. I loved the movies and have decided to get Guess Who's coming to Dinner to add to my personal collection.
A definite movie to add to ones collection and view with a varied audience to see and discuss their reactions.
Be Blessed
Sunday, 11 December 2011
21 Days of Yule Day 11: Sacred Pampering Ritual
Welcome to the Yule Edition of the Sacred Pampering rituals. (Yes I know I have missed a few Sundays, but why not catch up now during the crazy, hectic busy season).
Last year I posted a wonderful Bliss Spell. I enjoy using that during times of high stress and think you can use it as is, or change it to suit your needs, you could add in the name of a Deity of your choice if you think it will help it work better.
Whenever I have a pretty bad day i use the following:
Muslin, scissors, dried chamomile flowers, ribbon.
Directions:
How to use:
Here is a way I have learnt to make this Season a little less of a humdinger on myself, granted I don't have children to deal with but this season is still particularly stressful as a student, a daughter, a partner, and an empath. This is how I deal, I write it all down, then it won't be floating around in my head and I know I have some direction for what needs to be done, here a few tips and tricks from my book:
Last year I posted a wonderful Bliss Spell. I enjoy using that during times of high stress and think you can use it as is, or change it to suit your needs, you could add in the name of a Deity of your choice if you think it will help it work better.
Whenever I have a pretty bad day i use the following:
Soothing Eye Compresses:
Supplies:Muslin, scissors, dried chamomile flowers, ribbon.
Directions:
- cut muslin into 6 in squares per compress
- place two teaspoons dried chamomile flowers in the centre of each square
- tie the muslin bundles with ribbon
How to use:
- Cover compress with hot water
- refrigerate until cold,
- Squeeze excess moisture from bags,
- then place on closed eyes for 20 minutes
Here is a way I have learnt to make this Season a little less of a humdinger on myself, granted I don't have children to deal with but this season is still particularly stressful as a student, a daughter, a partner, and an empath. This is how I deal, I write it all down, then it won't be floating around in my head and I know I have some direction for what needs to be done, here a few tips and tricks from my book:
- Try today to make a list of all the things that need to be done to pertain to the Yule Season, and look at the list, make a priority list of things that MUST be done in the next 38-72 hours, that can only be accomplished by You. Think hard and long about this because those items should be done first. Make this list no more than 6 items so that you can really knock it out without stressing out. Once you clear those off the list you can keep going until the list is done.
- Along with that list of priority items make a list of menial tasks that aren't too complicated and don't require your constant supervision and pass those on to your children (if your blessed with them); your spouse/partner-in-crime or whom ever is hosting the season with you.
- Don't attempt to do everything at once, I always get the menu done around this time so I can shop over the next few weeks for the items that way it doesn't hit the wallet as hard (especially in these lean times). I have also gotten into the habit of asking family members who are coming to do a dish so that it doesn't all fall on Me, my Mom, and My sisters to do all the cooking.
- Once your menu is set and you know what's needed see if there are items you can season now and freeze, make now and freeze or even just store them together in one spot so you don't go searching all over for it. A traditional Jamaican rum cake soaks the fruit for weeks before so I have to start that around my birthday if you want a REALLY good cake. SO planning ahead is KEY.
- if your hosting several people why not make it a buffet instead of a sit down, so there isn't any real stress about where to place everyone, or you can do what we do which is in waves, the children eat a little earlier than the adults and end up in the family room watching tv by time the adults sit down, which means we have almost no need to watch what we say cause there are no kids int he dining room and the parents get to relax without children whinging that they are hungry.
- Take frequent breaks and hydrate often, if the holidays are starting to grate on your nerves, take a break and do something non-holiday oriented, read a magazine, watch a favourite film, throw on some good music that you love, hide in the bathroom for a few minutes, just take a break so your mentally healthy otherwise you'll snap and freak out on the wrong person, like the partner's boss or his boss's wife (ask me how I know)
- PAMPER YOURSELF DAILY, whether it's the Bliss Spell, the Mid Winter Directional Meditation, a five minute juice break, or using on of the cold compresses mentioned above make sure to take time for you so this season is a great one and not just another stressful time.
Wishing you a wonderful Yuletide Season filled with lots of love, and Blessings and less stress
Saturday, 10 December 2011
Christmas Spirit Post 5
I was watching my Yule movies and Hulu recommended the movie Homeless for the Holidays... I resisted watching the movie because I have never seen the show or even heard about it before, once i ran through all the shows i normally watch and the ones i was looking forward to weren't on yet.
With nothing left to watch I decided that I would watch this; if you can overlook the low budget of the movie, and it's clearly created for the Christian family & the acting is sub par at best, beneath it all is an actually good Christmas movie.
I mean what parent wouldn't be happy their child isn't hooked on the idiot tube and Internet gaming sites, the 'father' kept asking his kids why they were reading or not watching t.v. I'm wondering if maybe it was produced by the church that they frequent in the show, as that's one of the few places they can actually show in full view.
Synopsis: "A smug executive enjoys the perfect life - until he loses his job, and finds himself working at a burger joint. Now he's falling behind on his bills, and if something doesn't change soon, his family could lose everything by Christmas."
Now personally this movie was really great at pointing out how even as the ship goes down so many of us are unwilling to jump off, but stick to our 'plans' and 'goals' even though they aren't working out. I'm not sure if the main character never read a book on job hunting or if he really was that naive, but if someone is head hunting you and you lose your job, even if it means moving to Alaska, you do what you have to do for your family, especially if you have children.
You don't hang on to your pride; you certainly don't shoot down the perfect opportunity to stay ahead of the wolves, simply because when you made your life plan you did it with the goal of living in one place forever, jobs in this economy don't coming knocking everyday. I loved how the wife flipped out on him and made him get his head on straight because he needed to provide for them, it was however archaic that she didn't go looking for a job as well.
The movie's strong point was faith in the Christian God, and the Spirit of Christmas; it however wasn't the only point. Now I personally took to the moving on and finding a new dream, especially because it seemed as if the Gods where pushing him and boy did he resist. Sounds like a lot of people I know (especially me)
Take the movie as it is and you will enjoy it.
With nothing left to watch I decided that I would watch this; if you can overlook the low budget of the movie, and it's clearly created for the Christian family & the acting is sub par at best, beneath it all is an actually good Christmas movie.
I mean what parent wouldn't be happy their child isn't hooked on the idiot tube and Internet gaming sites, the 'father' kept asking his kids why they were reading or not watching t.v. I'm wondering if maybe it was produced by the church that they frequent in the show, as that's one of the few places they can actually show in full view.
Synopsis: "A smug executive enjoys the perfect life - until he loses his job, and finds himself working at a burger joint. Now he's falling behind on his bills, and if something doesn't change soon, his family could lose everything by Christmas."
Now personally this movie was really great at pointing out how even as the ship goes down so many of us are unwilling to jump off, but stick to our 'plans' and 'goals' even though they aren't working out. I'm not sure if the main character never read a book on job hunting or if he really was that naive, but if someone is head hunting you and you lose your job, even if it means moving to Alaska, you do what you have to do for your family, especially if you have children.
You don't hang on to your pride; you certainly don't shoot down the perfect opportunity to stay ahead of the wolves, simply because when you made your life plan you did it with the goal of living in one place forever, jobs in this economy don't coming knocking everyday. I loved how the wife flipped out on him and made him get his head on straight because he needed to provide for them, it was however archaic that she didn't go looking for a job as well.
The movie's strong point was faith in the Christian God, and the Spirit of Christmas; it however wasn't the only point. Now I personally took to the moving on and finding a new dream, especially because it seemed as if the Gods where pushing him and boy did he resist. Sounds like a lot of people I know (especially me)
Take the movie as it is and you will enjoy it.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
21 Days of Yule: Day 08
This is one of my favorite holiday traditions, It's a great way to kick off the Holiday Party and it's a great talking piece for you and your 'crafty friends'. Have fun making this; I love to make this to hang up in door ways for Holiday Open Houses, or parties we have. It's a Kissing Ball (literally). It's easy to make and shouldn't cost more than $12.00 and maybe a half hour of your time.
How to make this sweet treat (hahahha I crack myself up)
You will need Hershey's Kisses: 2-3 Large bags, base this on however many balls you will be doing)
Glue gun and glue sticks
6 in foam ball
wire edged ribbon about 3 yards
20 gauge florists wire
Couple sprigs Mistletoe
Directions:
How to make this sweet treat (hahahha I crack myself up)
You will need Hershey's Kisses: 2-3 Large bags, base this on however many balls you will be doing)
Glue gun and glue sticks
6 in foam ball
wire edged ribbon about 3 yards
20 gauge florists wire
Couple sprigs Mistletoe
Directions:
- You can get the holiday coloured Kisses, pull all the little tabs out
- Determine where you want the top of the kidding ball to be and mark it,
- Heat your glue gun and apply small lines of the glue
- attach your kisses until the foam ball is covered MAKE sure to leave some space at the top of the ball which you marked
- Create your bow with the ribbon making it as elaborate and ornate as you like
- Leave a loop to hang
- attach the florists wire to hold the bow shape, create it into a spike and attach at the top of the ball (where you marked)
- Push in the mistletoe, either real or fake and let it hang
Rules of the Kissing Ball
Each person who is under the Ball can get a kiss or forfeit for a real kiss with the person they are standing with.
Remind everyone not to pull too hard the kisses should come off pretty easily.
Resources: Idea came from 30 Gifts under 30 minutes binder
Resources: Idea came from 30 Gifts under 30 minutes binder
Wednesday, 7 December 2011
KWW: Yule Curried Goat
At the beginning of the week I shared with you about the Yule Goat. Tradtionally in Jamaica one of the meals we have with Christmas is Cyrry Goat and I promised to share how to make some.
3lbs goat (or any amount based on your family size)
2 large carrots diced
1 large onion chopped
3 small green onions (escallions)
2 sprigs of thyme
2 Tbsp Jamaican Choice Curry
1/4 cup oil
2 medium potatoes cubed
3 garlic cloves
2 pimentos
1 cup water per lb of meat
1 large scotch bonnet pepper chopped (no seeds please)
Directions:
How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Goat
Ingredients:3lbs goat (or any amount based on your family size)
2 large carrots diced
1 large onion chopped
3 small green onions (escallions)
2 sprigs of thyme
2 Tbsp Jamaican Choice Curry
1/4 cup oil
2 medium potatoes cubed
3 garlic cloves
2 pimentos
1 cup water per lb of meat
1 large scotch bonnet pepper chopped (no seeds please)
Directions:
- Day before (or two hours if not enough time) Season the goat meat with the scotch bonnet, 2 of the thyme sprigs, onion, 1 green onion. Coat well and cover.
- Heat large dutch pot or pressure cooker with oil, allow to get hot, add in curry allow the curry to brown then add in rest of the chopped onion.
- Add in rest of seasoning and then the meat with all of it's seasoning too. turn and coat everything in the curry seasoning.
- add in water 1/4 cup at a time, NEVER directly onto the meat but onto the sides of the pot. Cover and allow to cook for 1/2 an hour
- Add in veggies and potatoes, pour in 1/4 cup more of water if dry
- Stir frequently, making sure all of meat cooks through
- Meat is done when it easily separates from bones and can come apart with a gently prod from the fork.
Serve with Rice and peas, or Roti, or even plain white rice
Here are some of youtube videos that make the curry goat similar to this recipe Curry Goat Recipes (each word is a different channel.
Be Blessed and enjoy!!
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Christmas Spirit Blog Post 3: Yule Erotic Reading
Book Review: A Gift of Gold
Author: Ann Jacobs
Publisher: Ellorascave
Cost: 0.99 ($1.49)
Pages: 69
My Rating:★★★1/2
Erotica Rating: :★★★1/2
How I got it: Purchased
Synopsis:
It's Christmas at Summerfield Castle and the deVere twins, Gavin and William, have always shared everything. Their women are no exception.
Now the younger twin, Gavin, is pledged to marry Lady Evelyn fitzSimmons to provide him with estates. He fears the wealthy widow may dampen his lusty pleasures…but she has other plans.
My Review:
I’m a big fan of historical novels, I’m also a big fan of history and Christmas lore, so I was super excited to find a book that combined all of the above. As a novel the story needed to be fleshed out more, which granted can't be done in a novella which this book is, I certainly wanted to know more about the family history, the parent's story sounded like it could have been an amazing story.
As an erotica, the sex scenes were pretty erotic & steamy. I loved that she threw in some historical accuracies including the old rituals pertaining to marriage, I enjoyed the by play between the couples, & was slightly creeped out my Meggie's sire's actions. I loved that Meggie was all for finding out if it was her money that Gavin wanted or if it was her. They never knew what hit them & I loved it!!
I however couldn't really stand the "Old English" that truly wasn't real Old English but I can't argue with that in a romance novel, other than that the book was actually pretty good. I wish to read more about the other family members.
It's a good quick read.
Enjoy the Yule bedfurs!!
Buy on Amazon Add to Goodreads
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Wandering About the Shops....
It's all about Handmade Yule
Last Year there was a Homemade Yule Challenge, where everyone pledged to make as many of their gifts as possible. This year it seems everyone wishes to support small businesses. I myself love doing so. I thought I would share with you a few friends who have great businesses for those on your list, in your covens, or even your own needs.
Some of these are pagan, some are not, but they are all small business owners and we should support them as much as we can:
The first one up is Kristeen, my close friend who makes amazing body products, she recently branched out and made some awesome decorations that are pagan themed. I thought those should be on someones tree I'm buying some as well. She has several different themed ones, but I love the purple ones the most.
I'm a jewelry fanatic, and the ones from this company, owned and created by Nubia are amazing. I love them and love knowing I'm supporting a small business as well, she too recently branched out and started adding vintage and interesting items. Like the 'genie' lamp from India.
My other fave friend is Candace, who i follow on blogger as well, she makes the most amazing smelling body butters, and shares so much of herself in her products you just know they are made with your best interest in mind. Check her out here at RedSunFlower Designs
Need Crystals or gems?? You must check out Hibiscus Moon's shop on etsy, she does an amazing job and willingly shares her knowledge as well. She has crystal grids, classes, and some free youtube videos as well. Check her out!!
How about a reading? Perhaps some Hoodoo Oils? Why not check out Den? at her etsy shop.
this is from her Spirit Guide reading, she is amazing!!
So those are my recommendations for this Season if I find more I will share. Thanks and Be Blessed
Happy Solstice
Last Year there was a Homemade Yule Challenge, where everyone pledged to make as many of their gifts as possible. This year it seems everyone wishes to support small businesses. I myself love doing so. I thought I would share with you a few friends who have great businesses for those on your list, in your covens, or even your own needs.
Some of these are pagan, some are not, but they are all small business owners and we should support them as much as we can:
The first one up is Kristeen, my close friend who makes amazing body products, she recently branched out and made some awesome decorations that are pagan themed. I thought those should be on someones tree I'm buying some as well. She has several different themed ones, but I love the purple ones the most.
I'm a jewelry fanatic, and the ones from this company, owned and created by Nubia are amazing. I love them and love knowing I'm supporting a small business as well, she too recently branched out and started adding vintage and interesting items. Like the 'genie' lamp from India.
My other fave friend is Candace, who i follow on blogger as well, she makes the most amazing smelling body butters, and shares so much of herself in her products you just know they are made with your best interest in mind. Check her out here at RedSunFlower Designs
Need Crystals or gems?? You must check out Hibiscus Moon's shop on etsy, she does an amazing job and willingly shares her knowledge as well. She has crystal grids, classes, and some free youtube videos as well. Check her out!!
How about a reading? Perhaps some Hoodoo Oils? Why not check out Den? at her etsy shop.
this is from her Spirit Guide reading, she is amazing!!
So those are my recommendations for this Season if I find more I will share. Thanks and Be Blessed
Happy Solstice
Happy Founder's Day to the ......
Ice Cold Brothers of the Alpha Phi Alpha Incorporated!!!! 105 Years ago 7 Jewels came together and created the FIRST, BEST, Fraterity of the Black & Old Gold.
In December 4,1906 at Cornell University, a hand full of students formed a way for the only Black students in Cornell to remain against the racism facing them.
This group was a brotherhood of support, these men became Great and inspired the formation of the Sisterhood of 20 pearls Alpha Kappa Alpha, as well all the other Fraternities that came after.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has continued to supply voice and vision to the struggle of African Americans and people of color around the world. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community's fight for civil rights.
Members of Alpha Phi Alpha include Jamaican Prime Minister Norman Manley, Nobel Prize winner Martin Luther King, Jr., Olympian Jesse Owens, Justice Thurgood Marshall, United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young, and Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson.
You Can Learn More about the Brothers the Black and Old Gold as well as the extremely well written and cited article on Wiki. I LOVE MY A PHI A!!!!
"First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All, " Motto
In December 4,1906 at Cornell University, a hand full of students formed a way for the only Black students in Cornell to remain against the racism facing them.
Alpha Phi Alpha evolved into a primarily service organisation and provided leadership and service during the Great Depression,World Wars, and Civil Rights Movements. It addresses social issues such as apartheid, AIDS, urban housing, and other economic, cultural, and political issues of interest to people of color.
This group was a brotherhood of support, these men became Great and inspired the formation of the Sisterhood of 20 pearls Alpha Kappa Alpha, as well all the other Fraternities that came after.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has continued to supply voice and vision to the struggle of African Americans and people of color around the world. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community's fight for civil rights.
Members of Alpha Phi Alpha include Jamaican Prime Minister Norman Manley, Nobel Prize winner Martin Luther King, Jr., Olympian Jesse Owens, Justice Thurgood Marshall, United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young, and Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson.
You Can Learn More about the Brothers the Black and Old Gold as well as the extremely well written and cited article on Wiki. I LOVE MY A PHI A!!!!
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